FOR SALE JF Classic Cars are proud to present this truly exceptional 1988 Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 2, Finished in factory-correct specification and presented in immaculate condition throughout Having covered a mere 17,115 miles from new and boasting just three former keepers, this example represents one of the finest, most original RS Turbos currently available a genuine collector-grade Ford that has clearly led a cherished and cosseted life from day one! DESCRIPTION The Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 2 was launched in 1986 as a refined yet exhilarating evolution of the original RS Turbo. Built exclusively at Ford’s Halewood plant, it was developed to deliver both performance and everyday usability a car capable of turning heads while offering genuine driving excitement Visually distinguished by its sculpted aerodynamic body kit, colour-coded bumpers, and unique RS detailing, the Series 2 also benefited from improved build quality and mechanical refinement over its predecessor. The model quickly established itself as one of Ford’s most iconic hot hatches offering turbocharged thrills, distinctive styling, and a level of desirability that remains as strong today as it was in the late eighties. This particular example, finished in its original factory specification and showing just 17,115 miles, stands as one of the most original and well-preserved RS Turbos to survive a genuine credit to its minimal ownership and careful preservation EXTERNAL Finished in factory-correct Ford Black, this 1988 Escort RS Turbo Series 2 presents in quite remarkable condition throughout. The paintwork retains a deep, glass-like gloss finish across every panel, beautifully highlighting the sharp lines and distinctive RS Turbo styling. All body panels remain straight and true, with pin-sharp shut lines that reflect the care and attention this example has received since new. The original factory-applied decals and badging are present and correct, still bright and untarnished, sitting proudly in their designated positions. The subtle factory bodykit, incorporating the unique front spoiler, side skirts, and rear valance, remains in excellent order, free from scuffs or damage a testament to the car’s low mileage and cherished life. At the front, the original Ford headlamps and spot lamps remain factory-fitted, unmarked and free from chips, cracks, or any signs of ageing. The front grille, bumpers, and exterior trim all retain a deep, consistent black finish with no fading or warping, complementing the car’s authentic showroom appearance. Completing the look, the original glazing is retained throughout, each pane carrying the correct factory etchings, while the window and door rubbers remain soft, fresh, and tarnish-free. A genuine timewarp example, this Escort RS Turbo’s exterior condition perfectly showcases how an unspoiled, original Ford performance icon should present sleek, glossy, and unmistakably eighties INTERNAL Displaying a remarkably low 17,115 miles from new, the interior of this 1988 Ford Escort RS Turbo presents in truly exceptional, time-warp condition a perfect showcase of how these iconic hot hatches left the showroom floor in the late eighties. The factory-correct Recaro sports seats, trimmed in Ford’s unmistakable Raven fabric (trim code SW), remain in outstanding order throughout. The signature deeply bolstered seat design still offers excellent support, with the contours remaining tight and the padding firm a clear indication of the car’s low use. The fabric itself is free from fading, wear, or sagging, with the material retaining its original weave and vibrant contrast stitching. Matching door cards are superb, remaining tight and undistorted, free from the typical pulling or lifting often found on lesser examples. The driver’s armrest shows only the lightest compression consistent with careful use, while all interior plastics, switchgear, and trim pieces retain their factory texture and colour depth. Beneath your feet, the original grey carpeting is in beautiful condition, still displaying a rich pile. The dashboard is flawless completely original and all gauges, warning lamps, and functions operate exactly as Ford intended. The original Ford Self-Seek stereo radio/cassette unit remains fitted and fully functional, complete with speaker directional control, further underlining the authenticity of this example. Even the finer details impress the boot area is clean and unmodified, and an uncut parcel shelf! Quite simply, this RS Turbo’s cabin stands as a benchmark example of preservation and originality a rare opportunity to experience a genuine 1980s Ford performance interior exactly as it left the showroom. ENGINE & TRANSMISSION Powering this exceptional Series 2 Escort RS Turbo is Ford’s renowned 1.6-litre OHC CVH fuel-injected engine, paired with the formidable Garrett AiResearch T3 turbocharger and intercooler a combination that defined the hot hatch era. Producing 132bhp, this lightweight RS delivers strong, responsive performance, with a 0–60mph sprint in just 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 128-mph figures that remain impressive even today. The engine bay presents in remarkably original condition, completely standard and unspoilt, reflecting careful ownership and correct maintenance throughout its life. All factory data plates and identification labels remain in place, while the inner front wings retain their correct factory date stamps and Ford emblem pressings, underscoring the car’s authenticity. Attention to detail continues with Motorcraft-branded ignition leads, hoses, and service components, all in superb order and consistent with the car’s original build. This level of preservation makes this RS Turbo a standout example one that’s both mechanically strong and historically correct. The five-speed manual transmission operates with precision, delivering a smooth, positive shift through all gears. The clutch action is light and crisp, allowing the driver to fully enjoy the turbocharged performance with confidence and ease. WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES This exceptional RS Turbo sits proudly on its factory-correct 15-inch light grey alloy wheels, all in outstanding original condition with sharp definition to the spokes and no evidence of corrosion or marking. Each wheel is shod with original factory Dunlop SP Sport D40 tyres, including the unused spare (we do advise for safety if intending to use on the road to have new tyres fitted) a rare sight today and a testament to the car’s originality and careful preservation. Braking performance is provided by servo-assisted ventilated front discs and solid rear drums, offering excellent stability and predictable stopping power in line with Ford’s factory specification. The RS Turbo-specific suspension system remains true to design, featuring independent MacPherson struts, coil springs, and telescopic gas-filled dampers at the front, with a beam axle and trailing arms with coil springs at the rear all working harmoniously to deliver the iconic balance of precision handling and comfort that defined the RS range. Every element of the running gear reflects both originality and correct upkeep, making this example not only visually pristine but also dynamically tight and confidence-inspiring to drive. A genuine, unmodified example of Ford’s legendary turbocharged hot hatch rarely found in such well-preserved, factory-correct condition HISTORY FILE Registered new on the 5th February 1988 by Hartwell Motors Grimsby to a Mr Richardson, Retaining dealer book pack containing the owner's manual, audio manual, dealer directory and various ford leaflets along with the all important original service book containing the following entries: 11-6-1988-636 miles 22-4-1989-1958 miles 16-2-1991-4568 miles 15-2-1992-6455 miles 1992-2014 independently serviced 1-4-2014-16964 miles 11-3-2016-17007 miles then covering virtually no miles since Presented here is an exceptional example of the 1988 Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 2, a car that has clearly led a cherished and carefully preserved life from day one. Supplied new in the UK, this RS Turbo has covered a remarkably low 17,115 miles from new and has enjoyed the care of only three former keepers, each one evidently a true enthusiast who appreciated the importance of originality and condition. Accompanying the car is a comprehensive history file that substantiates its pedigree including the original V5 logbook, dealer-supplied book pack, and a large collection of historic invoices and service records detailing regular maintenance throughout its life. Each document helps to paint a clear picture of a car that has been maintained with precision and respect rather than mere necessity. The factory service book carries its original stamps, verifying the low mileage and continuous care, while further paperwork includes past MOT certificates and service documentation spanning multiple decades. Rarely do examples surface that combine such originality, low mileage, and documented provenance. This RS Turbo remains a time-warp piece of 1980s Ford performance history unspoilt, unmodified, and presented exactly as it left the showroom floor. For the discerning collector or serious Ford enthusiast, opportunities to acquire a Series 2 RS Turbo in this calibre are vanishingly rare. A true investment-grade classic, representing not only the pinnacle of the Ford RS era but also an icon of Britain’s performance motoring heritage. V5 PRESENT, HPi CLEAR, MOT NOVEMBER 2026